Universal Guest Left Stunned as Parents Do Nothing While Child Steals Cane

Universal Orlando Resort is well-known for its thrilling attractions and immersive experiences. Visitors from all over flock to the park to experience the magic of both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. The theme park is constantly drawing huge crowds, especially with the excitement surrounding the opening of Epic Universe this past May.

However, for some visitors, their experiences take a surprising turn when unexpected situations arise that they never could have predicted.

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While many people visit Universal to create lasting memories with their families, the park can sometimes bring out a side of guests that is less than ideal. From crowded areas to long waits, stress can lead to moments of frustration. But what happens when an incident involves not just the guests, but the behavior of children, and more shockingly, their parents?

One recent experience left a Universal Orlando guest completely stunned, and the issue wasn’t the behavior of the child, but what the parents allowed to happen.

Reddit user unsung_requiem recently visited Universal Orlando Resort, and like many, was prepared for a fun-filled day at the park.

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The guest, who uses a wooden cane that they often get asked about, found themselves in a situation that took an unexpected turn. As they were taking a picture with their wife, the guest set the cane next to them, temporarily taking their hand off of it. That’s when a young child, around 10–12 years old, approached the cane, grabbed it, and began to play with it.

What came next left the guest in disbelief. Instead of reprimanding the child, the parents responded in an unexpected way.

Parents, please keep your kids “in check,” and to keep their hands to themselves.

At universal today with my wife, and I was taking a picture of her. I use a cane, and I admit it’s a nice wooden cane. A lot of people ask to see it, which I don’t usually mind them showing it. It was next to me, though I didn’t have my hand on it because I was holding the phone up to take the picture.

A kid (I’m guessing 10-12) runs up, grabs my cane, and starts playing with it. When I asked for it back their parent/guardian said “what’s the harm, we’re here for fun! He’s just checking it out” while he was swinging it around.

I’m very grateful to the TM who witnessed it and came over immediately to tell them that they needed to return our property. But he shouldn’t have needed to, it shouldn’t have happened in the first place.

Parents, please tell your kids not to touch other people’s properties.

Can’t believe I have to say this…
byu/unsung_requiem inUniversalOrlando

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Thankfully, a Universal team member saw the whole thing and put the parents in their place. Who knows what would have happened if they didn’t!

The Reddit post quickly gained traction, with many others chiming in to voice their shock at the parents’ inaction. The comments from other users reflected a growing frustration with the rise of entitled behavior at theme parks, not just from children, but from the adults who are supposed to guide them.

I am a parent of a 3 year old and we just went to universal a couple days ago, and when I tell you I was absolutely appalled at other people’s parenting while we were there. And also just a ton of people in general having zero manners, common courtesy, or common sense, of all ages. Idk what it was about universal but we saw way more shitty behavior there than at the Disney parks, and it really kind of ruined the day

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While the story may seem trivial to some, it sparked an important discussion on how parental behavior can influence children in public settings, especially in spaces like theme parks where there are high expectations for safety and respect.

The idea that parents would allow their child to take someone else’s property and then justify it with the “we’re here for fun” excuse didn’t sit well with many readers.

I was in dia alley [Diagon Alley] a few months ago and an eight year-old boy ran up and threw a bunch of garbage on me and then ran back to his parents and I walked over to them and scolded them both. They also seemed confused as to why I was upset with them.

While many visitors may have been shocked by this encounter, it’s not the first time similar stories have surfaced. In a world where parenting styles vary widely, the expectations in theme parks are clear: respect the property and personal space of others. Fortunately, as in this case, when the situation escalates, theme park staff are trained to intervene and ensure that all guests have a safe and enjoyable experience.

In the end, the guest’s experience serves as a reminder to both parents and visitors of the importance of personal responsibility, especially when it comes to the behavior of children. As a visitor to Universal Orlando Resort, it’s essential to be mindful of the shared space and treat everyone with respect—because ultimately, it’s about everyone’s enjoyment of the park.

Have you experienced similar behavior while visiting Universal or any other theme park? Have you ever witnessed a situation where a lack of parental intervention caused chaos for others? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below!